Motsepe extols TZ soccer quality

ZANZIBAR: THE President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Patrick Motsepe, has hailed the outstanding progress of football in Tanzania, citing the country’s commendable advancements in the sports sector.

Motsepe made the remarks upon his arrival at the Abeid Amani Karume International Airport to attend the Finals of the African Schools Football tournament held at the New Amaan Complex in Zanzibar.

The visit marks Motsepe’s inaugural official trip to the Island, which is gearing up to host its first-ever continental final. He was warmly received by the Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) President, Wallace Karia, CAF Vice-President Souleiman Waberi and local government officials.

The African Schools Football Championship Continental Finals, in its second edition, previously took place in Durban, South Africa. Motsepe expressed his admiration for the Tanzanian government, particularly through its Ministry of Culture, Arts and Sports, for its efforts in advancing the sports landscape.

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He also commended the young talents participating in the ASFC tournament, emphasising that they describe the world-class potential Africa possesses in football. The CAF president also expressed optimism that an African nation will eventually clinch a World Cup title, buoyed by the talent showcased in events like the ASFC tournament.

“The young boys and girls who participated in the ASFC tournament are reflections of the world-class talents that we have in Africa and they give us confidence that one day an African nation will indeed win a world cup,’’ he explained.

The CAF President also lauded the football leadership of Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda for securing the hosting rights for AFCON 2027, foreseeing it as a historic and unifying moment for the region.

“AFCON 2027 is going to be one of the proudest moments in the history of football in Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda emphasising that football has the power to unite people and foster cooperation among nations,” he explained.

The success of the CAF African Schools Football Championship is attributed to the collaborative efforts of CAF, African governments, member associations and schools.

Supported by the Motsepe Foundation, which has generously contributed USD 10 million to the programme, the championship aims to promote organised football at the school level, encouraging youth participation and fostering holistic development across the continent.